It can be challenging to watch your parents grow older. They may experience memory loss, struggle to complete tasks that once came easily to them, or need support getting around, which will understandably worry you. As soon as you observe your loved one’s physical or cognitive abilities declining, it may be time to broach the subject of senior living. While addressing this subject isn’t always easy, these three tips may help diminish the burden.

How to Address Senior Living With Your Loved One

1. Start Early & Progress Slowly

Don’t wait until your loved one suffers a serious fall at home to address senior living. If possible, open the discussion as early as possible so you can slowly acclimate your parent to the idea. For example, start by talking about a friend or family member’s experience at an assisted living facility, and ask how your loved one would feel about that arrangement later on. If your parent seems upset, take a break and pick the conversation back up at a later date.

2. Be Patient

If you experience resistance, don’t feel discouraged. Instead, consider altering your approach. Instead of stressing that your parent move to an assisted living facility, for instance, emphasize their myriad benefits, including delicious meals and amenities. Whatever you do—don’t get upset and storm off. By remaining patient, you can help your loved one feel genuinely comfortable with the idea.

3. Work Together

You want your loved one to transition to senior living out of love and concern—because you truly want what’s best for their overall health and well-being. However, understand that your loved one may perceive the move as a loss of independence. To help your parent cope with life’s inevitable changes, approach the decision-making process as a team. Suggest touring various facilities together, for instance. 

For a peek at a warm, welcoming senior living center in the Frankfort, OH, area, check out The Vineyards at Concord. The premier assisted living facility provides the contemporary, comfortable living quarters where seniors thrive. In addition to lavish amenities and recreation options, the center also offers medical services like hospice, rehabilitation therapy, and dementia care. To learn more about the assisted living facility, visit the website or call today at (740) 998-4777.